HC Deb 01 November 1944 vol 404 cc794-5
52. Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicks

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty why he will not temporarily release from the Royal Marine police force special reserve a fully qualified plasterer, whose Service particulars have been separately supplied, to assist in repairing bomb-damaged houses.

Mr. Alexander

It is regretted that it is not possible to release men from the Royal Marine police special reserve for bomb damage repair work as that force is under strength.

Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicks

This man is fully qualified to undertake bomb damage repair work. In view of the appeal of the Minister of Labour, is the right hon. Gentleman's Department setting a very good example in this case?

Mr. Alexander

This man was transferred to the Royal Marine police at his own request and he is still subject to go back to naval employment. In reply to the hon. and gallant Gentleman's last point, I have assisted the Minister of Labour with very large numbers of men from the Navy for the work mentioned.

Mr. Astor

What is the number of naval personnel in uniform helping in this work in London?

Mr. Alexander

Speaking from memory, I would say something over 2,000.